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Originally Posted On: https://sloanestreetsurgery.co.uk/articles/introducing-same-day-biofire-diagnostic-testing-at-sloane-street-surgery/

Introducing Same-Day BioFire Diagnostic Testing at Sloane Street Surgery

We are pleased to announce that we have recently partnered with a new lab which allows us to offer rapid (same day results) BioFire diagnostic tests to our patients.

What are BioFire Panels?

BioFire Panels are advanced diagnostic tests that quickly identify a wide range of pathogens from samples like nasal swabs, throat swabs, rectal swabs, stool, and sputum. These tests help diagnose infections related to the respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, and pneumonia.

Which symptoms would prompt a BioFire test?

Symptoms that might prompt a BioFire test include persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, fever, severe diarrhoea, vomiting, and other signs of respiratory or gastrointestinal infections. If you have these symptoms, your doctor may recommend a BioFire test to determine the exact cause.

What specific infections do these tests detect?

BioFire panels can detect:

• Respiratory Infections: Viruses like influenza, RSV, and COVID-19, as well as bacteria like Bordetella pertussis and Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
• Gastrointestinal Infections: Pathogens such as norovirus, rotavirus, Salmonella, E. coli, and Clostridioides difficile.
• Pneumonia: Bacteria like Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, and viruses including adenovirus and coronaviruses.

How do BioFire tests work?

The BioFire system uses a technique called PCR (polymerase chain reaction) to amplify and detect the genetic material of pathogens. This allows for rapid and accurate identification of the cause of the infection.

How do BioFire tests help in treatment?

By accurately identifying the specific pathogen causing the infection, BioFire Panels allow doctors to:

• Choose the most effective and appropriate treatment quickly.
• Avoid the use of unnecessary antibiotics, which is crucial in preventing antibiotic resistance.

Why is reducing unnecessary antibiotic use important?

Overuse and misuse of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance, making future infections more difficult to treat. By using BioFire Panels to identify the exact cause of an infection, doctors can prescribe antibiotics only when necessary, helping to preserve their effectiveness.

What is the benefit of rapid diagnosis?

Rapid diagnosis with BioFire Panels means that patients can receive appropriate treatment sooner, potentially reducing the severity and duration of their illness. It also helps prevent the spread of infections to others.

Are BioFire Panel tests safe and reliable?

Yes, BioFire Panels are highly accurate and have been extensively validated. They provide reliable results that doctors can trust to make informed decisions about your treatment.

How long does it take to get results?

BioFire Panels can provide results in about an hour, which is significantly faster than traditional methods that may take days. BioFire testing is also available out of hours via our on-call doctor service, although lab turnaround times for results may be slightly longer out of hours.

What should I expect during the testing process?

The process is simple and non-invasive. Depending on the type of infection suspected, a sample will be collected using a nasal swab, throat swab, rectal swab, stool sample, or sputum sample. The sample is then processed by the BioFire machine to identify the pathogen.

How can Sloane Street Surgery help?

If you are experiencing respiratory or gastrointestinal symptoms, we encourage you to make an appointment with one of our doctors. They will assess your condition and, if appropriate, perform a BioFire test to accurately diagnose and treat your symptoms.

To book an appointment online click here or call us on 0207 245 3999. 

Article produced by Sloane Street Surgery, a private GP practice in London that provides world-class private healthcare for patients in Chelsea, Knightsbridge, Belgravia, West London, Hampshire, and beyond.